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Climb through the majestic Highland landscape to the lonely and imposing ruin of a 1400s stronghold.

Auchindoun Castle may have been built by Thomas Cochrane, a favourite of King James III. In its day it was a fairly sophisticated stronghold, with a series of fine stone vaults.

The castle was owned by the Ogilvy family in the early 1500s before being sold to Sir Adam Gordon in 1567. Gordon was notorious for the murder of all the occupants of Corgarff Castle during a feud in 1571. Auchindoun Castle was burned by William Mackintosh in revenge. By 1725 the castle lay derelict.

Today the ruined castle stands alone in a spectacular setting amid a landscape mostly devoid of settlements. Its lonely, romantic location make it more than worth the walk.

A narrow and winding grassy path leads across a hillside to a ruined castele
Long grass or straw waving in front of a ruined castle

Ready for an adventure?

Use a Membership or Explorer Pass to discover centuries of Scottish history and heritage, all while saving money and supporting our work.

Membership

Ideal for regular visitors and heritage supporters

Unlimited annual pass for all ticketed sites plus daytime events

Two adults, holding hands with two young children, walk through a graveyard, with historical stone ruins in the background. It is a sunny day.
  • Unlimited annual pass for all ticketed sites plus daytime events
  • Discount in our shops and cafés (on site and online)
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  • Free or discounted entry to sites in England, Wales and the Isle of Man

Explorer Pass

Perfect for short-term trips and sightseeing

Valid for 14 consecutive days

A family walking across a grassy lawn with the New Abbey Corn Mill building in the background.
  • Valid for 14 consecutive days
  • Entry to all ticketed sites, including Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle and Urquhart Castle
  • 20% discount on audio guides at Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle and Glasgow Cathedral
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